Simple 5-Ingredient Family Dinner Recipes 

September 11, 2013
Photo: Rick Lew
Get dinner on the table in no time with Real Simple main dish recipes that only call for a handful of ingredients.
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Fake-and-Bake "Fried" Chicken

Photo: David Prince
Fake-and-Bake "Fried" Chicken Recipe
Bypass the bucket and fake fried chicken at home. Brush the meat with ranch dressing then dredge in potato flakes for a juicy, tender dish that packs a light crunch. Make a salad or heat baked beans while the chicken bakes, then serve and let everyone dive in to a delicious family dinner.
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Sloppy Joes in Soft Corn Tortillas

Photo: Frances Janisch
Sloppy Joes in Soft Corn Tortillas Recipe
Take the "sloppy" out of the sandwich by ditching the bun and wrapping the hearty beef or turkey mixture, sprinkled with Cheddar, in a soft corn tortilla. This fun twist on the meaty dinner staple that can be on the table in less than 15 minutes.

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Chicken Parmesan

Photo: Frances Janisch
Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Start with breaded and cooked chicken tenderloins to save time on this family favorite. To kick up the flavor, sprinkle with oregano and drizzle with marinara sauce. Top with grated Parmesan and bake until the cheese is melted. Serve over noodles or with a side of salad for a dinner that's ready in 15 minutes.
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4 of 9

Baby-Back Ribs

Photo: William Meppem
Baby-Back Ribs Recipe
Make a simple rub from sugar, chili powder, mustard, and thyme leaves, and coat the baby-back ribs before cooking for an hour and a half. These taste great hot off the grill or fresh from the oven, so take your pick. Get them cooking, then go enjoy some time to yourself before dinner. Pair with instant macaroni and cheese for a filling, comfort-style dinner.

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Baked-Potato Eggs

Photo: William Meppem
Baked-Potato Eggs Recipe
Baked potatoes have long been an easy, budget-friendly meatless menu idea. Update your cheese-and-butter original by using grated Parmesan, diced turkey sausage, and a few eggs. Bake the potatoes once, then add the yummy extras and make a hollow for the egg, then bake again until the egg is set. You'll add protein and lots of flavor to the one-dish meal.

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Simple Roast Chicken

Photo: Jim Franco
Simple Roast Chicken Recipe
Make a simple chicken dish that roasts in about an hour and pairs well with a number of sauces and sides. Keep this recipe on hand as your go-to recipe for preparing a whole chicken during the week. The recipe is light but flavorful, so you can use the leftovers in sandwiches, pasta tosses, or with a favorite salsa.
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Fish Tacos

Photo: Mark Lund
Fish Tacos Recipe
Add fish to the menu with a quick-cooking meal that packs a satisfying crunch. Bake frozen fish tenders according to package directions, then wrap in warm tortillas with sliced red onion, tartar sauce, and romaine lettuce.

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Last-Minute Lasagna

Photo: Rick Lew
Last-Minute Lasagna Recipe
Shortcut a family favorite by using large cheese ravioli in place of the usual noodle and ricotta mixture. The ravioli takes the place of the two ingredients and still gives the casserole that homemade look when served. Bake for 40 minutes, then serve to family or last-minute dinner guests.
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